Contents
Description
Rubus Leucodermis, commonly known as whitebark raspberry, is a deciduous shrub species belonging to the Rosaceae family. The plant is native to western North America, and it is commonly found in subalpine and alpine regions. The whitebark raspberry is known for its edible fruit, which is often used in jams, jellies, and juices. The plant features a woody stem and branches that grow up to 2 meters in length. The leaves are green and serrated, while the flowers are white or pale pink in color. The fruit is a red or yellowish-orange aggregate, which is covered in small hairs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rubus |
| Species | Rubus Leucodermis |
Appearance
The whitebark raspberry is a medium-sized shrub that can grow up to 2 meters in height. The plant features a woody stem and branches that are covered in small thorns. The leaves are green and serrated, with a length of around 7-10 centimeters. The flowers are white or pale pink in color, and they bloom in mid to late summer. The fruit is an aggregate that is around 1 centimeter in diameter. The fruit is red or yellowish-orange in color and is covered in small hairs. The fruit is edible and is often used in jams, jellies, and juices.
Care Guide
The whitebark raspberry is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: The whitebark raspberry prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but you can add some compost or a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: The whitebark raspberry prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of around 5.5-6.5 is ideal.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but this can reduce fruit production.
- Hardiness Zones: The whitebark raspberry is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The whitebark raspberry is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common problems you may encounter:
- Cane borers: These pests can damage the stems of the plant. Prune affected canes and dispose of them to prevent the spread of the infestation.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and make sure the plant has good air circulation to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and fruit. Remove affected leaves and fruit and dispose of them to prevent the spread of the disease.
Habitat
The whitebark raspberry is native to western North America, and it is commonly found in subalpine and alpine regions. The plant prefers moist soil and can tolerate cold temperatures. It is often found in mountainous areas, along streams, and in meadows.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and is often used in jams, jellies, and juices.
Q: What is the ideal pH for the soil?
A: The ideal pH for the soil is around 5.5-6.5.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases?
A: Some common pests and diseases include cane borers, powdery mildew, and anthracnose.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the whitebark raspberry?
A: The whitebark raspberry is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Related Plants
- Rubus Chamaemorus
- Rubus Fruticosus
- Rubus Idaeus
- Rubus Occidentalis
References
- “Rubus Leucodermis.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 22 June 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rubus_leucodermis.
- “Whitebark Raspberry.” Montana Field Guide, Montana Natural Heritage Program and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, fieldguide.mt.gov/species/16209456.
- Reich, Lee, et al. “Rubus Leucodermis (whitebark Raspberry).” Minnesota Wildflowers, 2021, www.minnesotawildflowers.info/shrub/whitebark-raspberry.
